Using Linear Parameter-Varying Models to Represent Nonlinear Flight Dynamics

Author(s):

Joshua T. Bryson and Benjamin C. Gruenwald

Abstract:

This report presents a convenient model formulation for representing vehicle dynamics across a wide flight envelope. This approach has advantages in the design of gain-scheduled controllers. An example nonlinear model is provided and the process for trimming and linearizing the nonlinear model is presented. Several linear models typically used to represent the dynamics of aerospace vehicles are discussed along with a method to identify the dominant modes of motion. The presented model formulation is then validated against the full nonlinear model in simulation for comparison.